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to beat the band. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
to beat the band, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
to beat the band in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
to beat the band you have here. The definition of the word
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to beat the band, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
English
Etymology
Jonathon Green suggests that it means to drown out the band, that is, talk or sing louder than the band. See also beat the band.
Pronunciation
Adverb
to beat the band
- (idiomatic) In such a way as to surpass all competition; hence, contextually, very vigorously, at a frantic pace, to a high degree.
1917, Jack London, chapter 7, in Michael, Brother of Jerry:Fifty dollars gold 'd buy beer to beat the band—enough to drown me if I fell in head first.
1921, P. G. Wodehouse, chapter 7, in The Little Warrior:Last time I saw you, you were a kiddy in short frocks, running around and shouting to beat the band.
1922, Peter B. Kyne, chapter 54, in Cappy Ricks Retires:You rile me to beat the band sometimes, Skinner.
Synonyms
References
- ^ Green's Dictionary of Slang .